Aims To evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of nonpenetrating filtering surgery in the treatment of patients with open angle glaucoma. Methods Pertinent studies were selected through extensive searches. A total of 17 randomized controlled trials were included in the present meta-analysis. Main outcome measures were risk differences (RDs) of complete success for efficacy and postoperative complications for tolerability. Pooled estimates were computed according to a random effect model. Results Viscocanalostomy (VCO) and deep sclerectomy (DS) were significantly less effective than trabeculectomy (TE), and pooled RDs of complete success were -0.16 (95% confidence interval -0.30 to -0.02), and -0.10 (-0.19 to 0.00). DS plus mitomycin C (DSMMC) was also less effective than TE plus mitomycin C (TEMMC), with pooled RD of complete success being -0.16 (95%CI -0.32 to -0.01). VCO and DS caused main complications in fewer patients than TE. Conclusions VCO and DS were less effective than TE in the treatment of open angle glaucoma, and DSMMC was also less effective than TEMMC. However, VCO and DS were associated with fewer complications than TE. |